latent

Below the surface of conscious awareness. Existing in potential, but not yet made manifest, and therefore remaining hidden.
The attitudes, understanding and perceptions uncovered by the PD are considered latent in that they are present and exerting influence on behavior, but are not expressed directly. Latent attitudes will may eventually become conscious, and may be discernible through extensive observation of behavior. The PD provides a way to uncover such attitudes and perceptions before they have become outwardly expressed.